When looking for the ideal furry partner, size isn’t everything! The long-haired Dachshund and Golden Retriever are two popular breeds, although they are vastly different in size, behavior, and care requirements. But is bigger always better? Can a small dog like the long-haired Dachshund really compete with a huge and loving Golden Retriever? Let’s get into the details and see which dog would be the best fit for you.
Table of Contents
A brief overview of the two breeds
Long-haired Dachshund
- Size: 8-11 inches tall; 11-16 pounds.
- Life span: 12-16 years.
- Temperament: Loyal, lively, and independent
- Ideal for: Apartment residents, small families, and singles looking for a loyal companion.
- Grooming Requirements: Moderate (brushing several times each week)
Golden Retriever
- Size: 20-24 inches tall; 55-75 pounds.
- Life span: 10-12 years.
- Temperament: friendly, clever and affectionate
- Ideal for: Active families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a social dog.
- Grooming Requirements: High.
Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals, let’s compare these two breeds in different ways.
Temperament: Which Breed is More Affectionate?
Both breeds are affectionate and loyal, but they exhibit love in different ways.
- The long-haired Dachshund is extremely loyal, typically connecting firmly with a single person. They can be stubborn at first, but once they trust you, they become quite affectionate.
- The Golden Retriever is a sociable butterfly who adores everyone they meet, making them ideal family dogs and terrific with youngsters.
Winner: If you want a dog who will be your loyal companion, the Dachshund is the best choice. If you want a sociable, outgoing dog, the Golden Retriever is the way to go.
Is the Dachshund or Golden Retriever easier to train?
- Golden Retrievers are eager to please and extremely intelligent, making them one of the easiest breeds to teach.
- Long-haired Dachshunds, on the other hand, are intelligent yet stubborn. Patience and good reinforcement are essential for training them.
Winner: The Golden Retriever is easier to train, making it an ideal choice for first-time dog owners.
Exercise Needs: Who Needs More Activity?
- The Golden Retriever is an active breed that requires at least one hour of daily exercise, which includes walks, playfulness, and cerebral stimulation.
- The long-haired Dachshund enjoys regular walks and playtime but is content with 30-45 minutes of exercise due to their small stature.
Winner: If you lead an active lifestyle, the Golden Retriever is a superior match. If you want a low-energy dog, the Dachshund takes this round.
Which Dog Adapts Best to Apartments?
- The Dachshund’s compact stature makes it perfect for apartment living.
- Golden Retrievers thrive in homes with a yard and room to wander.
Winner: The long-haired Dachshund is the best choice for small living situations.
Grooming: Which Breed Needs More Care?
- Both breeds shed, but Golden Retrievers shed far more and require frequent brushing.
- Long-haired Dachshunds require brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent matting, but are generally low-maintenance.
Winner: The long-haired Dachshund needs less grooming overall.
Health Concerns: Which Breed is Healthier?
- Golden Retrievers are susceptible to hip dysplasia, cancer, and heart problems.
- Dachshunds are predisposed to back problems (IVDD) due to their long spine.
Winner: The long-haired Dachshund has a higher life expectancy, although both breeds require adequate care and veterinarian visits.
Cost: Which Dog Is More Affordable?
- Initial Cost: Golden Retrievers are typically more expensive to buy from breeders.
- Food and maintenance: Larger dogs require more food, resulting in higher monthly costs.
- Medical Costs: Dachshunds may require back surgery, whilst Golden Retrievers may incur higher medical expenditures due to cancer risk.
Winner: The long-haired Dachshund is a more affordable option.
Which Breed Is the Best Fit For You?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Affection and loyalty | Tie |
| Trainability | Golden Retriever |
| Exercise Needs | Dachshund (Less) |
| Apartment Living | Dachshund |
| Grooming Needs | Dachshund |
| Health and Lifespan | Dachshund |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Dachshund |
If you want an active, family-friendly dog and have plenty of space, the Golden Retriever is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a faithful, small friend who requires little exercise and care, the long-haired Dachshund is an excellent
If you’ve decided on either breed, here are some essential goods to make their (and your) lives easier:
For the Long-Haired Dachshund:
- The Best Orthopedic Dog Bed – is ideal for Dachshunds to prevent back issues.
- Detangling Brush for Long Coats – Keeps their fur silky and tangle-free.
- Dog Ramp for Sofas and Beds– is essential for preventing IVDD.
- Interactive Puzzle Toys– Keeps their mind active.
For golden retrievers:
- Heavy-Duty Chew Toys– Enhances their chewing tendencies.
- Large Breed Joint Supplements– Helps joints and prevents hip problems.
- High-Quality Grooming Brush: Reduces shedding.
- Retractable Leash for Large Dogs: Ideal for extended walks and control.
Final Thoughts
Despite its diminutive size, the long-haired Dachshund can compete with the big Golden Retriever. The choice between these two breeds is largely determined by your lifestyle, available space, and personal preferences. Whether you choose a pint-sized, feisty Dachshund or a cheerful, lively Retriever, both dogs add delight and friendship to any family.